How Liverpool could line up after 2024 summer transfer window

It's been a frustrating summer for Liverpool supporters desperate for transfer activity but the Reds were busy in the closing stages of the window.

Having taken over from Jurgen Klopp in the Anfield dugout, it's been a positive start to life for Arne Slot on Merseyside. Results have been impressive and performances equally so, both in pre-season and at the beginning of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.

However, Liverpool haven't strengthened their squad significantly over the summer window, instead relying on the stars who made Klopp's tenure so successful. As the season progresses, a lack of significant investment could prove an issue for Slot in his debut campaign.

Here is how Liverpool could line up after the window slammed shut.

Goalkeeper & defenders

One of Liverpool's summer signings was, somewhat surprisingly, a goalkeeper. The Reds have recruited Euro 2024 star Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia but the Georgian won't arrive on Merseyside until next summer. As a result, Alisson remains the undisputed number one for the new campaign, as he should.

The defence is set to be unchanged from the backline Klopp employed for much of last season. Despite concerns over his contract renewal, Trent Alexander-Arnold has already proven himself an invaluable asset to Slot. To the left of him, Ibrahima Konate has reclaimed his starting spot from the impressive Jarell Quansah.

There has been little progress in contract discussions with skipper Virgil van Dijk, too. Liverpool could let the imperious Dutchman leave for free next summer given he will turn 34 next July, but for now he remains an essential part of the rearguard.

At left-back, there is no competition. Kostas Tsimikas' questionable displays over the past year mean Slot is set to rely firmly on the experienced and energetic Andy Robertson. Keeping him fit is the real issue that faces the former Feyenoord boss.

Midfielders

There was significant clamour among Liverpool fans for the club to sign a new defensive midfielder in the summer window. Understandably so given it was an area that proved problematic at times last season and considering Slot seems to be unconvinced by stop-gap signing Wataru Endo.

However, after their failed attempt to sign Martin Zubimendi, Liverpool decided not to look elsewhere in the market. As a result, Slot has had to get creative in the early stages of his reign.

Ryan Gravenberch has operated as the club's deepest-lying midfielder in the opening weeks of the Premier League season, performing admirably in victories over Ipswich Town, Brentford and Manchester United. Whether it's a role he assumes for a significant period remains to be seen and it could still cause the Reds issues in high-profile clashes.

Fortunately for Liverpool, Dominik Szoboszlai has looked markedly improved at the beginning of the season. He made a lightning quick start to life on Merseyside last term but faded down the stretch. Getting the best out of the £60m man could prove transformative for Slot.

Of course, the third man in the engine room is World Cup winner and recent Copa America champion Alexis Mac Allister. He was arguably Liverpool's best player in his debut season and will undoubtedly maintain his incredibly high standards under Slot.

Forwards

Liverpool were linked with plenty of wide forwards over the summer and it appeared they were willing to ignore all of them in favour of their current options. However, after years of admiration, the Reds finally signed Juventus winger Federico Chiesa for just £10m - potentially rising to £12.5m - and he will offer depth on both flanks, providing he can avoid injury.

However, Chiesa is unlikely to be a regular starter for the Reds and certainly not at the beginning of the season. That's partly down to the remarkable form of Luis Diaz, who has been electric under Slot so far. He has moved firmly in front of Cody Gakpo in the pecking order.

On the other flank, there is no one in world football capable of overthrowing Mohamed Salah. Similarly to Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold, concerns continue over his contract situation with only a year left on his current deal, but Liverpool fans will certainly enjoy his brilliance if it is to be his final season at the club.

Through the middle, Diogo Jota has got the nod. The Portuguese sharpshooter is a relentless contributor when fully fit and avoiding knocks will be key to his success this season. For now, Darwin Nunez will have to accept a place on the bench.

Potential Liverpool lineup for 2024/25 season

(4-3-3): Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jota, Diaz.

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